9-Day Bulgaria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Sofia traveling south to Gabrovo, Plovdiv, Bansko, and Petrich

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. The first attraction of today is National Palace Of Culture. This locally renowned convention center is a visually striking place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at South Park, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sofia Zoo. This locally renowned zoo offers a visually striking encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to Geo Milev Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Druzhba Park, an intriguing park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sofia.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Sofia.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Sofia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Urban Rebel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3 of your road trip across Bulgaria promises a magnificent time exploring Sofia. You have 1 night left in Sofia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start by visiting North Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Zaimov Park, another must-visit landmark and popular park renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Sofia by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This picture-perfect church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Sofia experience. We also recommend visiting Church Of St. Nicholas The Miraclemaker, an up-and-coming church. Nearby, you'll also find National Theater "ivan Vazov", ready to add charm to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Bulgaria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Bring home unique finds from Sofia's bustling shopping hub, Vitosha Boulevard. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Vitosha Boulevard offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sofia. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel ZOO Sofia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar & Dinner Relax. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sofia.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at One More Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Teos Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Bulgaria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sofia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gabrovo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sofia allows for both. Start by heading to Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. This frequently visited church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Prince's Garden, an eye-catching park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Eagles' Bridge, a popular monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Borisova Gradina Park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Gabrovo. Gabrovo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Gabrovo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Strannopriemnitsa offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vanilla coffee&food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gabrovo.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Moda Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Zahir - Bar & Dinner, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Music Bar And Dinner "fashion" also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Bulgaria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Bulgaria. Today you will explore Gabrovo, Boicheta, Bachkovo, and Asenovgrad, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Gabrovo. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a museum, a monastery, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Park „markoteya“. This is a curiosity-inducing park you should not miss. Another must-see is Ethno Village Etar, an interesting museum in Gabrovo.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". From there, take a leisurely stroll to Asen's Fortress, another of the city’s intriguing attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Plovdiv, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Plovdiv, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Salt & Pepper, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rahat Tepe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss KFC. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Bulgaria!

On day 6 of your road trip in Bulgaria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Plovdiv. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bansko, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Plovdiv. Your adventure starts at Singing Fountain, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This captivating park is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Plovdiv's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This culturally significant archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bansko. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bansko's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Kasapinova Mehana, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Euphoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out OSCAR Wine Bar & Gastro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bansko.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Nova Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Penguins Bar & Dinner offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bansko. Amigo Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Bulgaria!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Razlog, General Todorov, Rozhen, and Kyustendil. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Petrich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bansko, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Park "razlog", an increasingly popular park in the town. Then, head to Baba Vanga House Museum In Rupite and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Bansko, and when you are ready for more, go to Rozhen Monastery. This is one of the town’s most beloved breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the monastery, visit the frequently visited Park "st. Vrach".

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Petrich. Petrich offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Petrich. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant "Provence", an iconic dining spot in Petrich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restorant „Rayski Kat ”, a popular restaurant in Petrich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restorantche , Zharavata", a hidden gem nestled in Petrich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Bulgaria!